Do dog dental water additives work?

Not on their own. Brushing a dog's teeth is a fight some days. A short brushing session beats none, and TropiClean is our pick for the days it doesn't happen. Oxyfresh and Dental Fresh are sold for fresher breath. Use an additive as backup for the days brushing doesn't happen, and ask your vet about tartar already on the teeth.

TropiClean Fresh Breath Oral Care Water Additive

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TropiClean Fresh Breath Oral Care Water Additive

Three checks before you pour anything in the bowl

• The seal on the bottle. Look for the VOHC seal and check the exact product name against the accepted list at vohc.org, since one brand can make several versions.
• What is already on the teeth. Tartar that's already on the teeth is a job for your vet.
• Who drinks from the bowl. If a cat shares the bowl, check that the bottle names cats before you pour.

The one to pour in on no-brushing days

TropiClean is the one to pour in on no-brushing days, and it goes in the bowl daily. Use the label dose alongside brushing, not instead of it.

A short brushing session beats none. Here is how to brush your dog's teeth, step by step. Want them compared? See the three additives side by side.

See a vet if

• Breath still bad after daily use? Ask your vet to look.
• Your dog drinks less, vomits or has loose stools after you start one. Stop and call.
• You see red or bleeding gums, brown or yellow buildup, pawing at the mouth or chewing on one side.
• Your dog is a puppy, is sick or takes medication. Ask before adding anything to the bowl.
• Your dog won't eat or drink, or the face is swollen. Call today.

Related questions

• Do dental treats replace a professional cleaning?
• What are the warning signs of dog dental problems?
• When should a puppy start dental care?
• What else freshens dog breath?